Hon Dr David Clarkhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/taxonomy/term/6377/feed
enHave your say on new rules for medicines and medical deviceshttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/have-your-say-new-rules-medicines-and-medical-devices
Health Minister Hon Dr David Clark wants the public, professionals, businesses and other interested parties to have their say on a new regime that aims to ensure the safety, quality and efficacy/performance of therapeutic products accessed by New Zealanders.
Today, the Ministry of Health has released an exposure draft of the Therapeutic Products Bill and an associated Consultation Document for public consultation.
“The Therapeutic Products Bill will replace the Medicines Act 1981 and establish a new regulatory scheme for therapeutic products,” David Clark said.
“The Medicines Act is old, hard to use, and doesn’t cover products adequately. There is a long history of reform attempts and it is time to finally get a new scheme in place.
“The Bill sets up the main controls on things like clinical trials, product approvals, and prescribing. Importantly it also defines what we mean by ‘therapeutic product’. While that is obvious for many products, for others such as sunscreen, it’s not so clear and people may want to comment on those kinds of details as well.
“The new regulatory scheme will cover medicines including cell and tissue products but natural health products, including rongoā Māori, will be excluded, as far as possible, as the Government is considering how these could be regulated separately.
“We are also looking for feedback on particular things like the ownership rules for pharmacies and direct-to-consumer advertising of named prescription medicines.
“The Bill will set the framework, and alongside this we will be working and consulting on a raft of other details that need to be settled in order to get the whole scheme in place. That will include things like medicines labelling and product standards.
“This is a significant step towards a new more comprehensive, modern regulatory scheme for therapeutic products including medicines and medical devices.
“It’s about providing New Zealanders with the assurances they expect about the quality of products used in our health system and sold to the public. I hope the sector and the public will take the opportunity to engage with this and future consultations on this scheme,” David Clark said.
Recognising the complexity of the Bill, and the impact of the holiday period, the consultation period will run for four months, ending 18 April 2019.
The consultation material can be found on the Ministry of Health’s website.
Fri, 14 Dec 2018 11:59:12 +1300beehive.govt.nz106682Crackdown on synthetic drug dealershttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/crackdown-synthetic-drug-dealers
The Government is responding to increased drug-related deaths by cracking down on the suppliers of synthetic drugs while making it easier for those with addiction problems to get treatment, Health Minister Dr David Clark and Police Minister Stuart Nash have announced.
“Under current laws synthetics and other dangerous drugs are killing people and fuelling crime while dealers and manufacturers get rich. The current approach is failing to keep Kiwis safe and can’t be continued,” David Clark said.
“It’s time to do what will work. We need to go harder on the manufactures of dangerous drugs like synthetics, and treat the use of drugs as a health issue by removing barriers to people seeking help.”
The Government has today announced a suite of measures to tackle synthetic drugs, the culmination of work initiated by then Acting Prime Minister, Winston Peters, in late July. The measures include:
Classifying as Class A the main two synthetic drugs (5F-ADB and AMB-FUBINACA) that have been linked to recent deaths. This will give police the search and seizure powers they need crackdown on suppliers and manufacturers, who will also face tougher penalties – up to life imprisonment.
Creating a temporary drug classification category, C1, so new drugs can easily be brought under the Misuse of Drugs Act, giving police the search and seizure powers needed to interrupt supply – an important part of a health response.
Amending the Misuse of Drugs Act to specify in law that Police should use their discretion and not prosecute for possession and personal use where a therapeutic approach would be more beneficial, or there is no public interest in a prosecution. This will apply to the use of all illegal drugs, so there is no perverse incentive created encouraging people to switch to a particular drug.
Allocate $16.6 million to boost community addiction treatment services, and provide communities with the support to provide emergency “surge” responses, when there is a spate of overdoses or deaths, for example.
“To be clear, this is not the full decriminalisation of drugs recommended by the Mental Health and Addiction Inquiry. These are immediate steps we can take in response to the challenge we face with synthetics. We are considering the Inquiry’s recommendations separately,” Dr Clark said.
Police targeting dealers
Police Minister Stuart Nash says frontline Police are targeting dealers and suppliers with an increased focus on organised crime and trans-national crime as a result of extra resourcing in Budget 2018.
“Misuse of drugs remains illegal and people should not be complacent about the risks of getting caught. Whether a drug user ends up getting Police diversion, goes through an alternative resolution process, or is referred for health treatment, they will still come to the notice of Police,” Stuart Nash said.
“However Police currently use their discretion when it comes to drug users who are suffering from addiction or mental health problems.
“Prosecutions for possession are decided on a case by case basis and follow prosecution guidelines from Crown Law. Fifty-two people were imprisoned for drug possession or use during 2017/18.
“I expect Police will continue to prosecute people for possession when appropriate under the guidelines announced today. It is not a black and white exercise to distinguish between users and dealers. Factors include the seriousness of the offence, if there are victims, if safety of others is at risk from the drug use, if there is public disorder, and if the evidence is sufficient to justify a prosecution.
“We are striking a balance between discouraging drug use and recognising that many people using drugs need support from the health system, or education about harm reduction. We don’t want our jails full of people with addiction problems, we want those people getting treatment,” Stuart Nash said.
More support for treatment services, community responses
David Clark says the Government is allocating an additional $16.6 million to bolster addiction treatment services.
A total of $8.6 million has been set aside for an Acute Drug Harm Response Discretionary Fund over four years, and will be available immediately. The fund will:
Help communities respond to acute issues such as a surge in overdoses or deaths
Help people make lasting change to their lives to tackle issues that might be driving their use of drugs, such as homelessness
Up to a further $8-million (over two years, $4.6 in 2018/19 and $3.4-million in 2019/20) will be used from the proceeds of crime to:
Establish a Drug Early Warning System to provide intelligence and data to support the discretionary fund
Develop and deliver ‘Addiction 101’ training in communities experiencing harm from synthetic drugs
Fund other Ministry of Health drug and alcohol initiatives
“There’s no question that more investment in addiction services will be required over time, but the changes we are announcing today clearly demonstrate this Government’s focus on harm reduction and supporting people to live healthier lives,” Dr Clark said.
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 11:07:39 +1300beehive.govt.nz106642Medicinal cannabis legislation to help ease sufferinghttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/medicinal-cannabis-legislation-help-ease-suffering
Health Minister Dr David Clark says thousands of New Zealanders will potentially benefit from the Government’s medicinal cannabis legislation.
The Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill passed its third reading in Parliament this afternoon and will soon become law.
“Ultimately, this legislation will greatly increase availability of quality medicinal cannabis products, and will allow for their domestic manufacture. It will help people ease their suffering by making a wider range of quality medicinal cannabis products available over time.
“Today’s vote in Parliament clears the way for the creation of a medicinal cannabis scheme that will allow New Zealand companies to manufacture medicinal cannabis products for both the local and international market. Regulations, licensing rules and quality standards will be set on expert advice within a year of the law coming into effect.
“These medicinal products will be available on prescription. This will be particularly welcome as another option for people who live with chronic pain. Additionally the Bill removes cannabidiol as a controlled drug, so it becomes a prescription medicine.
“We know that some people cannot wait for medicinal products to become more readily available and will want to use illicit cannabis to ease their pain.
“People nearing the end of their lives should not have to worry about being arrested or imprisoned for trying to manage their pain. So as a compassionate measure we are also creating a statutory defence for people eligible to receive palliation so that they can use illicit cannabis without fear of prosecution.”
Palliation is about alleviating pain and suffering for a person with an advanced progressive life limiting condition. The statutory defence will be available to approximately 25,000 New Zealanders who could benefit from palliative care.
“This is compassionate and caring legislation that will make a real difference to people living in pain and nearing the end of their lives. I’m proud that as a Government, Labour, New Zealand First and the Green Party made this a 100 day priority – and have passed this legislation within a year of first announcing it,” David Clark said.
NOTE: Next year, the Ministry of Health will release a paper for public consultation seeking feedback on the quality standards, licensing system and regulations required as part of the medicinal cannabis scheme.
A medicinal cannabis oversight panel will be set up to provide feedback and expert advice on the development of the medicinal cannabis scheme. This panel will include experts, such as medical professionals, and consumer and industry representation.
Tue, 11 Dec 2018 17:14:50 +1300beehive.govt.nz106614Celebrating gains in health workforce equity http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/celebrating-gains-health-workforce-equity
Health Minister David Clark is pleased to celebrate the Otago Project partnership between the Ministry of Health and the University of Otago which is significantly increasing the number of Māori graduates in the health sciences and workforce.
“Today I was privileged to attend Te Heika Pounamu, the University of Otago’s pre-graduation celebration for Māori health science graduands, and to share this wonderful occasion with these tauira and their whānau.” David Clark said.
“This year’s cohort of Māori health science graduands is the largest ever at the University, which makes today’s celebrations particularly noteworthy. In all, 76 Māori will graduate tomorrow in a diverse range of health disciplines.
"When the Otago Project began in 2009, there were 131 Māori health profession students across all programmes. Today there are almost 350. Within the University of Otago’s health programmes, the proportion of health profession students who are Māori has risen from 5% to 13%. This is great progress but clearly there is still more work to do.
“Improving equity in health is a key priority for the Government and to make health truly equitable, it’s essential we have a workforce representative of the population.
“However, Māori have historically been under-represented in our health workforce. This is not equitable and it’s not acceptable.
“The Project is culturally responsive and empowers Māori students throughout their studies from ‘inspiration to graduation’, inspiring school-leavers to pursue careers in health and supporting students throughout their university studies.
“I congratulate these emerging health professionals for their commitment and success,” David Clark said.
Fri, 07 Dec 2018 16:11:43 +1300beehive.govt.nz106564Fast track for new Dunedin Hospital outpatient and day surgery buildinghttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/fast-track-new-dunedin-hospital-outpatient-and-day-surgery-building
Health Minister Dr David Clark has announced a significant change in the approach to constructing the new Dunedin hospital.
It will now be built in two stages, with the outpatient and day surgery building fast tracked to be finished more than three years earlier than anticipated and the larger inpatient building due to be finished five or six years after that.
David Clark said the announcement comes after ‘some months of thinking and planning’, and is conditional on the normal Cabinet and budgetary processes being secured.
“The underlying issue is that the existing Dunedin hospital will not last the distance in its current state. There is simply too much damage, too much congestion, too many things to work around and no room to do so.
“Had we done nothing, the existing hospital would have progressively struggled to deliver adequate services, especially in the emergency department and in surgical services. It would also be unreasonable to ask staff to operate under existing conditions for another decade.
“Sadly, all of this is the direct and predictable result of years of procrastination and indecision in earlier times.
“The current hospital simply does not have adequate day surgery capacity and has no room to build more. The Southern DHB and the Southern Partnership Group have considered every conceivable option to address this. The best way forward is to put a manageable chunk of the new hospital on a much faster track.
“As soon as we have new day surgery capacity up and running, we will be able to repurpose that space within the existing hospital to best serve the needs of patients and staff. That will mean the existing hospital will be much more functional for the last five or six years of its life.”
The new plan is to open the smaller of the two buildings, the day surgery and outpatient building, in two stages; November 2023 and November 2024. Importantly, day surgery will be able to start in the new facility in November 2023. Some contingency times have been built into the plans but these dates are nonetheless dependent on no major obstacles such as unpredicted ground conditions.
The larger inpatient building does not have a finish date yet but Dr Clark said he expects it will be complete in about ten years.
“The people of the South have been waiting too long for modern hospital facilities – this plan means they can expect to have modern outpatient and day surgery facilities within five years,” David Clark said.
NOTE: For more information about the project head to www.newdunedinhospital.nz.
Fri, 07 Dec 2018 12:00:20 +1300beehive.govt.nz106560Progress on safer drinking waterhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/progress-safer-drinking-water
Minister of Health David Clark says the Ministry of Health has made good progress ensuring New Zealanders can rely on the safety of their drinking water in the 12 months since the final Havelock North Inquiry report.
“A year ago, along with my colleague the Attorney-General David Parker, I released the Havelock North Inquiry Stage 2 report,” said David Clark.
“The report highlighted many areas where change was needed to ensure New Zealanders have access to demonstrably safe drinking-water.
“The Inquiry had 51 recommendations, corresponding to 62 individual actions to ensure safer drinking water. At the release last year, I talked about the need to focus on both short and long-term work. Twenty two of 26 actions about immediate improvements to operational management, leadership, and to address technical issues have been implemented.
“A further 18 recommendations are in the process of being implemented, but are dependent on factors such as the passing of the Health (Drinking-Water) Amendment Bill or external advice before they can be considered implemented.
“The remaining 22 are tied into work being carried out by the Three Waters Review.
“This means in the past year, 40 of 62 actions are either implemented, or close to being implemented. This progress demonstrates the commitment I laid out last year to responding swiftly to the Inquiry’s recommendations.
“Additionally, the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill has had its first reading in early November.
“The bill will make it easier for more work to be done to implement the recommendations of the Havelock North Inquiry and allow the Government and drinking-water sector to be more proactive and future focused.”
“On 20 November I also announced changes to the Drinking Water Standards including two which will significantly improve the ability to test and respond quickly to the presence of harmful bacteria such as E.coli.”
“On the same day the Minister of Local Government, the Honourable Nanaia Mahuta and I released a Cabinet paper that details proposals for a system wide reform of regulation of drinking water, along with a new risk management regime for sources of drinking-water.”
“I thank the Ministry of Health, public health units, local government and drinking water suppliers for the work they have carried out in the past year to make sure tens of thousands more New Zealanders can be confident their drinking water is demonstrably safe,” David Clark said.
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 11:56:57 +1300beehive.govt.nz106540Mental Health and Addiction report charts new directionhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/mental-health-and-addiction-report-charts-new-direction
Health Minister Dr David Clark says the Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rethink how we handle some of the biggest challenges we face as a country.
The Government has today publicly released the report of the Inquiry in full, less than a week after receiving it.
“Mental health and addiction are issues for all New Zealanders. Every community and just about every family has someone in it that has lived with a mental health or addiction challenge.
“The Inquiry heard many stories of people who did not get the help they needed and deserved. We must listen to these voices of people with lived experience.
“The report charts a new direction for mental health and addiction in New Zealand, one that puts people at the centre of our approach.
“It is clear we need to do more to support people as they deal with these issues - and do a lot more to intervene earlier and support wellbeing in our communities.
“The Inquiry panel has delivered a set of strong and coherent recommendations covering everything from the social determinants of health and wellbeing, to expanding access to treatment services and taking strong action on alcohol and drugs.
“We are working our way carefully through the 40 recommendations and will formally respond in March. I want to be upfront with the public, however, that many of the issues we’re facing, such as workforce shortages, will take years to fix.
“Reshaping our approach to mental health and addiction is no small task and will take some time. But I’m confident this report points us in the right direction, and today marks the start of real change for the better,” David Clark says.
Tue, 04 Dec 2018 11:50:42 +1300beehive.govt.nz106508Cheaper GP visits for 600,000 Kiwis begin tomorrowhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/cheaper-gp-visits-600000-kiwis-begin-tomorrow
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says making the cost of visiting the doctor much cheaper for almost 600,000 Kiwis will mean more people will be able to get the care they need, when they need it.
From tomorrow up to 540,000 Community Services Card holders will see the cost of visiting the doctor fall by an average of $20-30. That includes about 80,000 people who will be newly eligible for a Community Service Card because they receive an Accommodation Supplement or an income-related rent subsidy. The Ministry of Social Development started sending these cards to people this month.
On top of that 56,000 13 year olds will become eligible for free primary care. Free and cheaper doctors visits were announced in Budget 2018,
“In a country like New Zealand cost should not put people off going to see the doctor when they’re sick. I’m proud that, from tomorrow, the Government has made cost much less of a barrier to hundreds of thousands of Kiwis,” Jacinda Ardern said.
“The Coalition Government has set out improve the wellbeing of all New Zealanders and we’re committed to making our country the best place in the world to be a child. Extending free doctors’ visits to every child under 14, is a big step towards that goal,” Jacinda Ardern said.
Health Minister David Clark today joined the Prime Minister at the Island Bay Medical Centre in Wellington to mark tomorrow’s milestone. The centre has 1200 CSC holders on its books who will now pay less than $20 per visit.
“Last year more than half a million people didn’t go to their GP because of the cost – that’s a shocking number. We’re tackling that directly by reducing fees for those most in financial need,” David Clark said.
“Not only will cheaper doctors visits mean more people will be able to afford to get the care they need, that will mean many health issues can be identified and treated early before they become major problems requiring hospital treatment.
“So far more than 80 percent of general practices have signed up to deliver cheaper visits for their patients. I want to thank the primary health sector for their hard work preparing for the rollout of this policy, which will make it easier to access their valuable services over time,” David Clark said.
Fri, 30 Nov 2018 11:16:44 +1300beehive.govt.nz106482Changes signalled to medicinal cannabis legislationhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/changes-signalled-medicinal-cannabis-legislation
Health Minister Dr David Clark says proposed changes to the Government’s medicinal cannabis legislation will mean more people can get access to medicinal cannabis faster.
“This legislation will greatly increase availability of quality medicinal cannabis products, and will allow for their domestic manufacture. It will mean many New Zealanders living in pain will have another option to find relief.”
During the second reading of the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Amendment Bill, Dr Clark outlined planned amendments which will be introduced via a Supplementary Order Paper (SOP) during the Committee Stage.
The SOP will:
Alter the eligibility for people who can use the statutory defence for the use of illicit cannabis so that it covers people in palliation (rather than limiting it to the terminally ill in their last 12 months)
Set a requirement for the regulations for the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme to be made no later than a year after the law comes into effect
Make clear that varieties of cannabis that are already in New Zealand can be used for medicinal products
Make technical changes to the description of allowable THC thresholds in CBD medicinal products
“The statutory defence for people who are nearing the end of their live to possess or use illicit cannabis is a compassionate measure to ease suffering and improve quality of life.
“I want to acknowledge New Zealand First for advocating strongly for the defence to be extended to cover anyone in palliation. To put that in perspective, each year about 25,000 New Zealanders could benefit from palliative care.
“Similarly, the Green Party pushed for a requirement to finalise regulations for the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme. This will speed up access to a greater range of quality medicinal cannabis products – and it gives those companies looking to develop those products certainty and a clear timeframe.
“These changes strengthen the law and will make it easier for people to get the relief they need. I want to thank both New Zealand First and the Green Party for their constructive approach on this legislation,” says David Clark.
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 16:52:14 +1300beehive.govt.nz106478Government receives Mental Health and Addiction report http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-receives-mental-health-and-addiction-report
Health Minister Dr David Clark has today formally received the report of the Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction, saying it will help shape New Zealand’s response to mental health for years to come.
Dr Clark this morning met with the Inquiry Panel in his office to thank them for their work.
“The Panel held over 400 meetings up and down New Zealand and received more than 5,200 submissions. They heard at times confronting and challenging stories from people with lived experience, family and whanau, experts and those working in mental health and addiction.
“I want to thank the Inquiry chair Ron Paterson and panel members Dr Barbara Disley, Sir Mason Durie, Dean Rangihuna, Dr Jemaima Tiatia-Seath and Josiah Tualamali’i for seeking out and honouring those voices in their report.
“The 200-page Inquiry report is a substantial and considered piece of work. It will take time for the Government to fully digest the report and its 40 recommendations.
“The Government intends to formally respond to the Inquiry report in March next year. That will allow us to take some important decisions in time for the Wellbeing Budget in 2019 – although it will clearly take more than one Budget to address all the issues raised in the report.
“Given the public interest in mental health and addiction, I will release the Inquiry report publicly by the end of the year,” David Clark says.
Wed, 28 Nov 2018 10:55:08 +1300beehive.govt.nz106454Targeted meningococcal vaccination programme for Northland http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/targeted-meningococcal-vaccination-programme-northland
Health Minister Dr David Clark has announced the launch of a targeted vaccination programme in Northland to control an outbreak of meningococcal disease.
“The advice from clinical experts is that MenW has reached outbreak levels in Northland and we should urgently launch an immunisation programme to prevent further spread of the disease.
“This MenW strain has a high mortality rate and tragically has killed three people Northland this year. So far 29 people have contracted MenW nationwide in 2018 (more than twice as many as in 2017), including seven in Northland.
“Following advice about the best use of available vaccine we will begin targeted vaccinations in Northland next month.
“The vaccination programme will target Northland residents who are aged 9 months to four years (inclusive), and those aged 13 to 19 years (inclusive).
“Research shows that vaccinating these two age groups is the best way to reduce the spread of meningococcal disease across the entire Northland community. This helps to protect everybody, even if they don’t qualify for the free vaccination.
“Northland District Health Board plans to start a three-week community vaccination programme on 5 December in selected high schools and community centres across Northland.
“Launching a vaccination programme now, when the school year is almost over and the holiday season is close, will be challenging for the DHB. However it is important that we begin this work as soon as possible to contain this deadly disease in Northland.
“There is strong international demand for the MenW vaccine, which is in short supply. Pharmac and the Ministry of Health have done well to source 20,000 doses covering four types of meningococcal disease, including A, C, W and Y. The first batch of 10,000 doses will arrive in New Zealand next week and the remainder a few weeks later.
“Pharmac and the Ministry of Health will continue to investigate the availability of further doses of the vaccine as a contingency, in case further roll-out of the programme is recommended,” Dr Clark says.
Mon, 26 Nov 2018 15:51:25 +1300beehive.govt.nz106430Fresh thinking evident in new mental health unithttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/fresh-thinking-evident-new-mental-health-unit
Health Minister Dr David Clark says he’s encouraged by the fresh, positive thinking evident in the design of Counties Manukau DHB’s new Tiaho Mai Mental Health Unit.
David Clark officially opened phase one of the new adult mental health inpatient facility situated in the grounds of Middlemore Hospital today.
“It has been fantastic to look around and see no fences and no barred windows, but instead find large, comfortable communal spaces, open courtyards, and a whare out front,” David Clark said.
“When I look at this facility, I see things being done differently. I see what can be achieved when we utilise the principles of co-design, and tap into the knowledge and experience of the people using our mental health services, and our tangata whenua.
“The team at Counties Manukau have done a wonderful job to ensure this is a comfortable and safe place to recover.”
The new 38 bed facility increases capacity for acute inpatient mental health treatment in Counties Manukau which David Clark said was badly needed.
“Across New Zealand, there is still much progress to be made in mental health care. We know that there are significant challenges and people whose needs are not being met. We also know that these challenges disproportionately affect particular communities, and that many of these disparities are unjust and preventable,” David Clark said.
Stage Two is expected to begin in early 2019. On completion Tiaho Mai will be able to accommodate 76 patients.
Thu, 22 Nov 2018 12:01:22 +1300beehive.govt.nz106394Fixing Middlemore Hospital a priorityhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/fixing-middlemore-hospital-priority
Long standing problems with buildings and infrastructure at Middlemore Hospital and the Manukau SuperClinic will be fixed following an $80 million investment, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today.
“Improving access to high quality health services provided in world-class facilities is a priority for the Coalition Government,” said Jacinda Ardern.
“The people and staff of Counties Manukau District Health Board deserve quality facilities that are in a good state of repair.
“Problems with leaky buildings, including rot and mould in the walls, and earthquake prone facilities are all symptoms of years of neglect and underinvestment.
“We are tackling that with an $80 million investment which will make a real difference to patients and their families and to staff working at the frontline.
“Improving the state of our hospitals is a priority. In our first Budget $750 million of new funding was set aside for capital works – with today’s $80 million dollar investment we have allocated well over $600 million of that to key projects.”
Health Minister David Clark said today’s announcement was a welcome step in what would be an ongoing process of renewing Middlemore and other DHB facilities.
“This funding means Counties Manukau DHB can plan with certainty and develop business cases for four important projects:”
Re-cladding the Kidz First Building, as part of an ongoing phased approach to re-cladding clinical buildings at CMDHB
Relocating the radiology department from the aging Galbraith building to the Harley Gray building
Establishing a radiology hub at the Manukau SuperClinic site (currently patients have to be transferred to Middlemore for CT and MRI services)
Critical infrastructure work at the Manukau SuperClinic including new plant room/substations, IT, medical gases and parking – all needed to support expansion of clinical services in the short to medium term
“These projects will significantly improve the standard of key facilities. They will also help Counties Manukau DHB better handle a growing population with some of the most challenging health needs in New Zealand.
“Upgrading and repairing hospital facilities is no small task. It requires careful planning to minimise disruption to patients and staff while maintaining services throughout.
“In the end, though, this is about delivering the quality facilities and services that people need and deserve. This is a Government committed to that task,” said David Clark.
Update on capital investments from Budget 2018:
$275m for Auckland DHB to address significant infrastructure challenges at Auckland City Hospital and Greenlane Clinical Centre
An estimated $200m plus for a new elective surgery unit at North Shore Hospital (Waitemata DHB is preparing a business case)
$80m for four projects at Counties Manukau DHB (business cases to be developed).
$45.6m for the new Wellington Children’s Hospital
$24m for new endoscopy and cardiac care capacity at Northland DHB’s Whangarei Hospital
$20 million for new Buller Hospital Integrated Family Unit
$8 million for Individualised Service Units at Capital and Coast DHB for our most high needs intellectual disability and mental health patients
$7.1m for the Phase 2 redevelopment at Bay of Islands Hospital
Wed, 21 Nov 2018 12:59:57 +1300beehive.govt.nz106382Changes to drinking water standards will help keep New Zealanders healthyhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/changes-drinking-water-standards-will-help-keep-new-zealanders-healthy
Minister of Health David Clark is making changes to Drinking Water Standards which help keep New Zealanders safe from waterborne illness.
“The Havelock North Inquiry sent a clear message that work was needed to improve the standard of drinking-water in New Zealand.”
“The bottom line is public safety. People expect when they turn on the tap, the water they are drinking is safe, and that is a reasonable expectation which should be met.”
David Clark said many of the changes he is making, which will take effect on 1 March 2019, are clarifications or corrections, “but there are two changes which will significantly improve the ability to test and respond to the presence of harmful bacteria such as E.coli”.
“The first requires water suppliers to routinely monitor the total amount of coliform bacteria in water. A high reading doesn’t necessarily mean drinking-water is unsafe, but can serve as an indicator of potential issues.
“The other change I am considering is about testing for E.Coli. At the moment drinking-water suppliers test to determine if E. Coli is present in water. They then carry out a second test if the initial test is positive. This means a delay of up to two days before authorities know if there is a contamination.
“I’m considering a proposed change which will require testing to count the numbers of bacteria. This should eliminate the need to carry out a second test, as the initial test will be able to determine both the presence of these bacteria and also how prevalent they are.
“There will be a consultation on changes affecting testing for E.coli and other coliform bacteria, which will include talking to testing laboratories which don’t provide this form of testing at the moment and may be affected by these changes.
“The Havelock North Inquiry recommended I make this change without consultation, however I believe it’s important to speak to the laboratories which will do this testing to ensure they will have the capacity to provide this service into the future.
“A comprehensive review of the Standards is also being carried out, led by an independent Drinking-Water Advisory Committee. I expect proposed changes from this review to be released for public consultation by mid-2019.”
Meanwhile, a Cabinet paper released today lays the groundwork for changes to make drinking-water safer in the future.
The paper Future state of the three waters system: regulation and service delivery, jointly released by the Minister of Local Government Nanaia Mahuta and the Minister of Health, details proposals for a system wide reform of regulation of drinking water, along with a new risk management regime for sources of drinking-water.
“This paper provides the public with a view into work being carried out by the Government on improving all of our water systems.”
“While the Three Waters Review is being led by my colleague Hon Nanaia Mahuta, the responsibility of drinking-water – of which some of the work is identified in this paper – lies with me.
“The Ministry of Health’s work to improve drinking-water safety in New Zealand has ramped up significantly in response to the Havelock North Inquiry reports.
“I’m encouraged by the work carried out to date by public health units, local government and drinking water suppliers.”
“The first reading of the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill earlier this month is also a step toward removing regulatory barriers to allow improvements to drinking-water safety.
“This Bill will allow the Government and drinking-water sector to be more proactive and future focused, as well as make it easier for more work to be done to implement the recommendations of the Havelock North Inquiry,” David Clark said.
Tue, 20 Nov 2018 14:56:18 +1300beehive.govt.nz106372Government confirms $20m investment in new health centre for Westporthttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-confirms-20m-investment-new-health-centre-westport
Health Minister Dr David Clark today confirmed $20m in Crown funding and the site for the new Buller Health Centre in Westport.
During a visit to Westport today with West Coast Tasman MP Damien O’Connor, David Clark said the latest concept design for the new facility had been accepted, allowing detailed design work to proceed.
"The people of Buller have waited long enough for a modern, purpose-designed health facility.
“The Government has listened to the public engagement process and the typically direct feedback from Coasters, including input from the clinicians who will work there.
“As a result, I can confirm that the Buller facility will be located on the current hospital site, and that we’ll be increasing the scope of the project to allow for the inclusion of the locally provided Adult Dental Service as well as two additional medical beds.”
Damien O’Connor said today’s announcement was great news for the Coast.
“Today we have reason to celebrate because a fit-for-purpose Buller health facility will be delivered as promised by the Coalition Government.
“I want to thank Dr Clark for listening to feedback and boosting the number of medical beds beyond the initial plan.
“Many people should be proud of their efforts to get a better deal for Buller residents after the previous Government’s determination to penny pinch and entirely ignore the community’s wishes.
“The new facility will be one that the community can be proud of and I’ll be keen to see construction get under way as soon as possible,” Damien O’Connor said.
David Clark said project budget is being set at $20 million, to be funded by the Crown, and continues a series of significant Coalition Government investments in hospital infrastructures.
“In recent weeks, we’ve announced major investments in hospitals from Northland to Auckland to Wellington, and today the West Coast. All New Zealanders deserve access to services which will lead to better health outcomes,’’ said David Clark.
Mon, 19 Nov 2018 10:04:08 +1300beehive.govt.nz106356Tackling rural health workforce issueshttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/tackling-rural-health-workforce-issues
Health Minister Dr David Clark says the Government will take a series of measures to improve the supply of doctors, nurses and midwives working in rural New Zealand.
“It’s widely known and accepted that we face challenges attracting and retaining health professionals in some of our smaller communities. We need to make our rural health workforce more sustainable.
“Working in rural health can be incredibly rewarding, but it is also demanding and can be isolating. We must do more to support rural health workers and make working in the regions a more attractive career choice.”
The previous government had received bids for a School of Rural Medicine but that process will not now proceed. No money had been allocated for the school, which would have cost up to a quarter of a billion dollars to set-up and operate.
“By itself, just training more undergraduate doctors is not the answer. We need a more comprehensive approach to attract, support and sustain the health professionals that care for rural people.
“I’ve asked the Ministry of Health to work on addressing the issues of access to health services in rural areas and increasing the availability of a whole range of health practitioners in rural areas.
“We know that Australia has successfully put in place initiatives to train, support and retain its health professionals – both internationally and locally trained – and we should learn from their experience.
“To address this issue we are developing a raft of initiatives, including measures such as:
Changing the training funding mix so that a greater proportion of GP training places go to rural trainees
Putting greater investment in professional development for rural primary health care nurses and midwives
Extending rural inter-professional education programmes
Improving the use of technology for professional rural support
“These are things we can do in the short term. The Ministry of Health is also looking urgently at longer-term solutions and will work with rural communities, iwi, local government, educators, immigration and health professionals,” says David Clark.
Minister for Rural Communities Damien O’Connor says a strong health workforce is vital for the wellbeing of rural communities.
“Rural New Zealand needs to know that health services will be there when they need them.
“I welcome Minister Clark’s commitment to ensuring we have a sustainable rural health workforce, and will continue to work alongside him to deliver this,” Damien O’Connor says.
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 11:12:44 +1300beehive.govt.nz106316New facilities for Bay of Islands Hospitalhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new-facilities-bay-islands-hospital
Health Minister Dr David Clark says a new outpatients and primary care facility at the Bay of Islands Hospital at Kawakawa will give people better access to the range of services they need.
The Government is investing $7.1 million in Phase 2 of the hospital’s redevelopment which will see a new outpatients and primary care facility built next to the Acute Medical Building that was opened in September this year.
“This is an exciting development for the people of the Bay of Islands. Having GPs and other primary care clinicians on site will mean locals can more easily get the most appropriate care and treatment.
“As Health Minister I have often spoken about the challenges we face in the health system and the need to change how we deliver services to those in most need. Making the most of primary care is a key part of this.
“I understand that Ngāti Hine Health Trust intend to provide primary health care with GPs operating from the new facility. I welcome their involvement and their commitment to improving health outcomes for their people - this is exactly the sort of local collaboration that we need to see.”
The Phase 2 redevelopment is designed to deliver a patient-centred and integrated model of care that is sensitive to the needs of the individuals and their whānau, and enables access to health services in a culturally appropriate community setting.
Northland DHB will move the outpatients services currently located in the older parts of the hospital into the new state of the art facility and will continue its partnership with Ngāti Hine Health Trust to develop new models of care for the Bay of Islands community. The location of renal services, which are currently in the old hospital, is also being reviewed.
“Health statistics tell us that we have a lot of work to do to improve outcomes for the people of the North. This development is a clear signal that the Government is committed to doing just that,” David Clark says.
The Phase 2 project will complete the redevelopment of Bay of Islands Hospital.
Sat, 10 Nov 2018 08:01:48 +1300beehive.govt.nz106242Government commits $45.6m to new Wellington children’s hospitalhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government-commits-456m-new-wellington-children%E2%80%99s-hospital
Health Minister Dr David Clark says the Government has committed $45.6m to Wellington’s new state of the art children’s hospital – a project fast tracked by a $50m donation by businessman Mark Dunajtschik.
David Clark announced the funding at a mauri stone laying ceremony today to mark the start of construction.
“The Government wants to make New Zealand the best place in the world to be a child and health services and facilities like this new hospital play a vital role in delivering this vision,” David Clark said.
“The current hospital is almost 30 years old with services located in different parts of the regional hospital. This is not ideal for children or families who are already going through a stressful time, nor for hospital staff who want to provide the best service for their patients.
“This new, purpose-built hospital will provide these services under one roof. It has been designed with children and their whānau at the centre while allowing for the provision of high quality services, as well as encouraging clinical collaboration and communication.”
Capital and Coast DHB’s plans for a new children’s hospital to replace the current facilities were brought forward last year following the announcement of Mr Dunajtschik’s donation.
“International evidence shows that health systems with a strong publically funded core deliver the best health outcomes for all. I acknowledge that those outcomes are improved further with the incredibly generous support of New Zealanders like Mark Dunajtschik,” David Clark said.
The Government’s contribution to the new hospital is the latest investment from the $750m for health sector capital investment allocated in Budget 2018.
Background: The new hospital will be spread across three floors, will 50 beds and 21 clinic rooms, situated at the northern end of the Wellington campus, connected by a link bridge to the main hospital. There will be features to support patient care and manage risks, such as infection control. These include, beds that fold out alongside the patient's bed to allow parents to stay with their children. There will be more ensuite bathrooms, and a greater number of single bedrooms.
The new hospital will have the most modern fit-out and state-of-the-art equipment – thanks in large part to the fundraising efforts of the Wellington Hospitals Foundation. It is scheduled to open by early 2021.
Wed, 07 Nov 2018 12:19:27 +1300beehive.govt.nz106208School kids get the message about antibioticshttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/school-kids-get-message-about-antibiotics
Antibiotics are not always the answer. That’s the message from 12-year-old Libby Thompson from Cust School in Rangiora, winner of the 2018 national antibiotic awareness poster competition.
Health Minister Dr David Clark has congratulated Libby and says her poster delivers exactly the right message for both communities and health care workers this Patient Safety Week, which runs from 4–10 November.
‘Having children like Libby understand the importance of antibiotics is vital – we need to protect these important medicines not just for ourselves but for future generations.’
Dr Clark says the competition was a great way to increase awareness about the growing global issue of antibiotic resistance and the importance of hand washing to prevent minor illnesses.
‘We know we use more antibiotics than we need to. There are simple ways we can reduce our dependence on them, such as washing our hands regularly and correctly so we don’t spread germs that cause sickness in the first place, and not prescribing antibiotics for a virus or cold.’
The national competition was a joint Health Quality & Safety Commission, Ministry of Health and ACC initiative.
The winning posters are being used to promote Patient Safety Week (which has a focus on hand hygiene to stop the spread of infections) and World Antibiotic Awareness Week (12–18 November).
More than 250 entries were received from students across the country.
A full list of award winners and their posters are available on the Health Quality & Safety Commission website.
Mon, 05 Nov 2018 11:20:47 +1300beehive.govt.nz106158Let’s keep building on improvements in children’s oral healthhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/let%E2%80%99s-keep-building-improvements-children%E2%80%99s-oral-health
Health Minister David Clark says he’s pleased the sustained investment in children’s oral health begun under the last Labour Government is paying off.
“Oral Health Day today is a great time to acknowledge the work begun by former Health Minister and dental nurse Hon Annette King who initiated a major overhaul of the Community Oral Health Service,” David Clark said.
Over that time the proportion of children free of tooth decay at age five has increased from 51% to 60%. For those aged 12 to 13 the improvement is even better, going from 47% to 65%.
“Each healthy tooth we have is a jewel. It’s fantastic that more of our children are growing up free from painful tooth decay.
“However there is more work to do. The improvement among Māori and Pasifika children, while good, does not match the gains among other children.”
The Ministry is working with District Health Boards to grow the proportion of pre-school children enrolled and receiving publicly-funded care from the Community Oral Health Service. They are also working to keep them enrolled until age 18.
“This is important not just for the sake of our kids now but for their future. Evidence shows that oral health at age 5 predicts oral health at age 26.
“We know there is unmet need for oral healthcare among adult New Zealanders. Working on the oral health of our tamariki now is one way we can reduce that unmet need over time.”
In the meantime, we can all act to improve our own oral health and that of our whanau.
This year for Oral Health Day, the Dental Association are asking New Zealanders to give up sugary drinks and consume only water during November.
Those who register for the challenge go into a draw to win high-tech blue tooth equipped toothbrushes while schools can win sports equipment, cash and a visit from Olympic pole vaulter Eliza McCartney.Background:
Since Budget 2006 a major Government reinvestment programme has provided $116 million for DHBs to build new fixed and mobile dental facilities for the COHS.
An additional $32 million each year in operating funding for the DHBs' Community Oral Health Service supports the improved model of care with a focus on preventative tooth care.
In the ten years to 2017 the severity of decay (the average number of decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) per child) has reduced from an average of 2.27 to 1.76 affected teeth per child at age five, and from an average of 1.53 to 0.77 affected teeth per child at school year 8 (12-13 years of age).
For Māori five-year-olds, the number of decayed, missing and filled teeth has reduced from an average of 3.67 to 2.81 teeth per child at age five, and from 2.31 to 1.18 teeth per child at school year 8.
Pacific children have demonstrated a reduction from an average of 3.85 to 3.16 DMFT per child at age five, and from 1.79 to 1.11 at school year 8.
Fri, 02 Nov 2018 13:37:49 +1300beehive.govt.nz106144Mental health resource refreshed for the first time in 10 yearshttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/mental-health-resource-refreshed-first-time-10-years
Minister of Health David Clark will tomorrow launch a refreshed update to Let’s get real.
Let’s get real is a framework which has helped New Zealand’s mental health and addiction workforce since it was first developed in 2008.
This refreshed version has been developed to apply broader than the mental health and addictions workforce.
“Let’s get real is relevant for anyone working alongside those experiencing mental distress, illness or addiction,” says David Clark.
“It outlines the essential values, attitudes, knowledge and skills needed to deliver effective services to those with mental health and addiction needs.
“There’s strong evidence those with mental health and addiction needs have poorer health outcomes compared to the general population. To make a positive difference on this, Let’s get real has extended so it now applies to everyone who works within health.
“The refreshed Let’s get real outlines six values, five attitudes and seven ‘real skills’ those working with people with mental health and addiction needs should know and understand.
“There’s an increased emphasis on tikanga Maori throughout the refreshed framework and a greater focus on relationships with whanau, parents, tamariki.
“Also reflected in this new version is an acknowledgement of how partnerships between services and sectors are crucial to ensure those who access services get the best possible support.
“I’d like to acknowledge the work of both the Ministry of Health and Te Pou on this new refreshed version of Let’s get real,” David Clark said.
For more information: www.tepou.co.nz/letsgetreal
Sun, 28 Oct 2018 12:39:01 +1300beehive.govt.nz106062More beds, upgraded facilities for North Shore and Whangarei hospitals http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more-beds-upgraded-facilities-north-shore-and-whangarei-hospitals
120 additional elective surgery beds and four new operating theatres for North Shore Hospital
New endoscopy and cardiac care facilities for Whangarei Hospital
$224 million investment
More patients will receive the surgery they need following a funding boost to North Shore and Whangarei Hospitals Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced today.
“It’s a priority of the Coalition Government to improve the wellbeing of all New Zealanders and their families and access to quality healthcare is a key part of that.
“This investment will make a real difference to patients and their families and to staff working at the frontline after years of underfunding of facilities in the northern region.
The Government will invest more than $200m in a new elective surgery unit at North Shore Hospital and $24m in new endoscopy and cardiac care capacity at Whangarei Hospital.
“These projects will ensure the people of Auckland and Northland receive the high quality hospital care they deserve.”
“We set aside a record $750m in this year’s Budget as a first step to rebuilding New Zealand’s hospitals so it’s pleasing to be delivering on our promise.
Health Minister David Clark said he was pleased with Waitematā District Health Board’s plan which is expected to provide for 120 additional beds and four operating theatres but also has been designed to allow for further capacity to be added as demand increases.
“This provides the opportunity for this facility to meet demand from elective patients from across the Auckland area and reduce waiting times,” David Clark said.
“At more than $200m - subject to the detailed business case now being prepared - this is a significant investment which will serve the needs of Auckland’s rapidly growing population for years to come.
David Clark said the funding package for Whangarei Hospital DHB would provide for interim surgical and endoscopy facilities over the next ten years while the longer term redevelopment of the hospital is planned.
The funding will also allow for the establishment of a cardiac catheter laboratory.
“The prevalence of cardiovascular disease in Northland contributes to the greater life expectancy gap between Northland and the rest of the Northern region and between Māori and non-Māori.
“The new cardiac catheter lab will mean fewer avoidable deaths through improved cardiac care for Northlanders and represents a significant opportunity to improve equity of outcomes.
“The North Shore and Whangarei projects bring this Government’s total investment in hospitals and other health infrastructure to over $500m since Budget 2018.”
David Clark also welcomed the release today of the four Northern DHBs’ Long Term Investment Plan.
“This valuable piece of work identifies potential responses to meeting the investment challenges across the northern region in the longer term.
“It is a significant accomplishment, and will be an important input into our investment decision making for the region for years to come,” David Clark said.
Update on capital investments from Budget 2018
$275m for Auckland DHB to address significant infrastructure challenges at Auckland City Hospital and Greenlane Clinical Centre
$8 million for Individualised Service Units at Capital and Coast DHB for our most high needs intellectual disability and mental health patients.
$200m for a new elective surgery unit at Waitematā’s North Shore Hospital
$24m for new endoscopy and cardiac care capacity at Northland’s Whangarei Hospital
Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:02:22 +1300beehive.govt.nz105984Enhanced air ambulance service for the South http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/enhanced-air-ambulance-service-south
Health Minister Dr David Clark has announced the third and final agreement in principle has been reached for new air ambulance services that will be safer, better and firmly focused on patients.
The southern region agreement has now been signed with new provider Helicopter Emergency Medical Services New Zealand Limited (HEMS). This follows earlier announcements covering the northern and central regions.
HEMS is a joint venture between two well-established existing providers, Helicopters Otago and GCH Aviation (Christchurch). HEMS will be supported by existing trusts and funds raised by each trust will continue to support services in their area.
“This new approach will deliver more modern, better equipped air ambulance helicopters in the south,” David Clark says.
“The providers will purchase two new helicopters during 2019. These will give clinical staff more room to provide vital patient care on board.
“New technology on those aircraft combined with exclusive use air routes will also enable missions to be flown safely in conditions that previously restricted the use of helicopters.
“All existing bases in the South Island will remain. In Christchurch and Dunedin the service will be 24/7, with dedicated clinical crew available. Other bases in Nelson, Greymouth and Queenstown will have dedicated services during the day, which is when most emergency call-outs occur, and on-call services overnight.
“When the new contract begins on November 1, Queenstown will have fully dedicated cover for the first time and a larger helicopter with better technical specifications to replace its smaller, older one as will Greymouth.
“And I know that confirmation that the current on-call service from Te Anau will continue will be welcome by people in the south west of the South Island.
“Our current air ambulance services have done a great job over the years. This new arrangement will help them build on their existing strengths and strong community relationships, says David Clark.
NOTE: The existing trusts supporting HEMS are: Otago Rescue Helicopter Trust, Canterbury West Coast Air Rescue Trust, Lakes District Air Rescue Trust and Nelson Marlborough Rescue Helicopter Trust
Wed, 17 Oct 2018 11:06:46 +1300beehive.govt.nz105934Summit puts mental health on global agendahttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/summit-puts-mental-health-global-agenda
Health Minister Dr David Clark says the first ever Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit has ended with a commitment to improve mental health worldwide and challenge stigma and discrimination.
Overnight New Zealand endorsed the Global Declaration on Achieving Equality for Mental Health in the 21st Century, which acknowledges that everyone has the right to the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.
“Over the course of the two day summit in London it was clear that New Zealand is far from alone in grappling with its response to mental health issues,” David Clark says.
“Mental health is a global challenge. It affects every country, every community and every family. The Declaration is a line in the sand – an acknowledgement that we can and must do better in protecting and promoting mental health and wellbeing.
“One key theme that emerged at the Summit was the importance of looking beyond mental health services and systems to community led responses. We need to listen to local communities about their needs and about their solutions.
“We need to enable and support conversations about mental health at every level of our society. And we need to build on efforts such as our own current Mental Health Awareness Week and the “Like Minds, Like Mine” campaign that promote a healthy and respectful discussion about mental health.
“The Summit highlighted for me the importance of the work of the independent Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction (which is due to report back next month).
“The Inquiry received more than 5500 submissions and held 400 meetings – we need to listen to those voices as we prepare the Government’s response,” says David Clark.
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 09:35:49 +1300beehive.govt.nz105872Short extension for delivery of Mental Health and Addictions Inquiry Reporthttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/short-extension-delivery-mental-health-and-addictions-inquiry-report
The Health Minister Dr David Clark says Cabinet has agreed to grant a short extension of time for the independent Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction to report back to Government.
David Clark said the Inquiry Panel Chair Ron Paterson asked for a one month extension to ensure proper consideration of the more than 5500 submissions received and the information gathered at 400 meetings and public forums.
“This is a hugely important piece of work in a priority area for this Government and it will inform policy for many years to come. Cabinet agreed that we need to give the panel the time to properly consider what New Zealanders have told them and to do the job right,” David Clark said.
The Inquiry was to have reported back by October 31 but will now report back by November 30.
Tue, 09 Oct 2018 10:19:46 +1300beehive.govt.nz105842Mental Health Awareness Week - a time to connect and reflecthttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/mental-health-awareness-week-time-connect-and-reflect
Health Minister David Clark says we must recognise the importance of New Zealanders connecting and reflecting with whānau, family and friends, ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW).
"During Mental Health Awareness Week (8 - 14 October 2018), I'm emphasising how we can all recognise and support mental health. The Government is committed to improving this country's mental health approach, and through this year’s Mental Health Awareness week we can take the opportunity to Let nature in," says David Clark.
"We know connecting with nature makes New Zealanders feel great. Every little bit helps us find balance, build resilience and boost mental wellbeing. It's great to see the Mental Health Foundation leading work around MHAW, with support from other key agencies and well known New Zealanders.
“It’s also fantastic to hear that more than 1900 people have registered their workplace for updates, and over 500 schools from preschools to tertiary institutes have registered and will take part in a range of activities during the week, including community and cultural events and an official MHAW workplace challenge.
"Mental health is a positive resource that needs to be looked after and maintained."
David Clark also recognised the Health Promotion Agency’s new Like Minds, Like Mine campaign which will be prominent over the week.
The new campaign ‘Just Ask. Just Listen.’ targets family, whānau and friends of people experiencing mental distress. The campaign is supported by the Like Minds, Like Mine website where there is deeper content for whānau on understanding mental distress, what to do, and where to go for support.
"Stigma makes it hard to ask for help – many people are worried that sharing their experiences will mean people will see them differently, and might put their relationships, job or even their home at risk. We can all be a part of changing this and making sure people feel valued, accepted and supported.
“More broadly, improving our wider mental health approach is a major priority for this Government. That’s why we launched the independent Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction as part of our first 100 days programme. I expect it will make robust and even challenging recommendations when it reports back to Government soon," David Clark said.
Significant mental health initiatives launched by the Government include extending school based health services to an extra 24,000 students in decile 4 schools, dedicated mental health support in primary and intermediate schools in Canterbury and Kaikoura through the Mana Ake programme, an Integrated Therapies pilot programme new drug and detox facilities at Auckland City Mission and a new six-unit mental health secure facility.
For support:
Need to talk? Call or text 1737 for free to connect with a professional counsellor.
For background around MHAW:www.mhaw.nz
For background around Like Minds, Like Mine:https://www.likeminds.org.nz/
Sun, 07 Oct 2018 11:48:20 +1300beehive.govt.nz105816Air ambulance changes will strengthen servicehttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/air-ambulance-changes-will-strengthen-service
Health Minister Dr David Clark says a second agreement in principle for air ambulance services covering the North Island south of Auckland is a key part of an improved national service.
The Ministry of Health and ACC are in the final stages of agreeing a four-year contract with an agency combining a number of trusts already operating in the central region. Today’s agreement in principle follows the recent announcement covering Auckland and Northland.
“Modernising our air ambulance services is a major undertaking, and the Government invested an extra $82.9 million (over four years) into these services in the 2018 Budget. These changes will deliver a safer, better service that is firmly focused on patients,” says David Clark.
“This is part of a ten year programme, led by clinicians, that will increase crew numbers, reduce call out times and ensure all our air ambulance helicopters are twin-engined, allowing more space to treat patients while in the air.”
“Ultimately this will mean services are more effective and efficient. And most importantly of all they will produce better and more consistent outcomes for patients.”
Within the central region concerns were expressed about proposals to replace bases in Rotorua and Taupō and instead provide coverage with helicopters from neighbouring centres.
David Clark says that feedback has been listened to, and a base will continue to operate from Taupō.
“Taupō’s high volume of search and rescue operations means it makes good sense to have a shared emergency response approach at this base. However the Rotorua base will not be part of the new contract.”
The Trust operating in Rotorua is part of the new contracted service for the central region, but it will operate from other bases in future.
The Rotorua region will be covered by helicopters in Taupō, Tauranga and Hamilton, with the response times estimated to be the same or faster than under the current model. Rotorua does not currently have paramedics on site, while Hamilton is moving to 24-7 staffing and Tauranga has paramedics on hand during the day. Rotorua is 14 minutes flying time from Tauranga; 18 minutes from Taupō and 26 minutes from Hamilton.
“I accept that there will be some unease in Rotorua about this change. To reassure the community that it will continue to receive a consistent, quality service a new clinical oversight group will be created to monitor the impact of these changes.
“Our current air ambulance services have done a great job over the years. Today’s announcement is about ensuring they go from strength to strength,” says David Clark.
NOTE: The new central region service will start 1 November. An announcement about a separate contract covering the southern region – the South Island – will be made later this month.
Fri, 05 Oct 2018 12:38:39 +1300beehive.govt.nz105806Better bowel care for the Bayhttp://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/better-bowel-care-bay
The Health Minister Dr David Clark says Hawke’s Bay Hospital’s new endoscopy and gastroenterology unit means more coordinated and accessible care for those affected by bowel conditions.
David Clark was in Hastings this morning to officially open the $13m facility.
“I’ve heard the loud and clear calls from bowel patients and whānau for better diagnosis, treatment, access to specialist services, and supportive care,” David Clark said.
“This is exactly the purpose of Ruakopito, which is why I’m proud to have the opportunity to open it.
“All the services these patients need will be available in a single purpose building. They’ll be able to get the help they need in a much more accessible way.”
David Clark also announced that Hawke’s Bay DHB will be joining the National Bowel Screening programme.
“In the Hawke’s Bay DHB region, bowel cancer is the most commonly registered cancer for both men and women.
“The National Bowel Screening Programme is particularly keen to encourage Māori and Pasifika people to participate. Māori are often diagnosed later with symptoms of bowel cancer which can result in worse outcomes.
“I know Hawke’s Bay DHB will be putting a lot of effort into engaging with Māori and Pasifika communities to promote the benefits of early detection through screening and support participation in the programme.
“By bringing gastro services under one roof, the Ruakopito facility will help manage the expected increase in colonoscopy screening,” David Clark said.
Tue, 02 Oct 2018 12:13:53 +1300beehive.govt.nz105750A step forward for Bay of Islands healthcare http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/step-forward-bay-islands-healthcare
Health Minister Dr David Clark says the new Bay of Islands Hospital redevelopment means the Kawakawa facility is better placed to meet the needs of its community now and in years to come.
David Clark officially opened the hospital’s new Accident and Medical Centre this morning.
“Today marks a significant step forward in improving the treatment and health outcomes for the people of the mid-North.
”I recognise and understand the health issues that the local population of the Mid-North faces, and I have great hope that this facility will help address those issues.”
“This new facility is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s also testament to the work that Northland DHB and the wider community have done together across the district to deliver patient centred care that is sensitive to the needs of the individuals and their whānau, and is culturally appropriate.”
The new Accident and Medical department opened today consists of suite of rooms including;
four acute bays
a procedure room
x-ray room
two resuscitation bays
It also includes a new twenty-bed medical ward.
Fri, 28 Sep 2018 12:41:25 +1200beehive.govt.nz105710Making Funded Family Care fairer http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/making-funded-family-care-fairer
The Government has today announced plans to change the Funded Family Care policy, including its intention to repeal Part 4A of the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 (the Act).
Cabinet has agreed to consider changes to Funded Family Care, with options and timeframes for changes to be presented to Cabinet later this year.
“The Government intends to repeal Part 4A of the Act that was introduced by the previous National Government,” Minister of Health Dr David Clark says.
“There have been consistent calls for Part 4A to be repealed because it is discriminatory. In particular, Part 4A has been inconsistent with human rights legislation because it denies families the right to complain about breaches of their human rights relating to family care policies,” Acting Associate Health Minister James Shaw says.
“The previous Government’s Funded Family Care policy has been a nightmare for the families involved. Today’s announcement is the first step towards a kinder and fairer agreement with carers.
“Over the next couple of months the Government will run targeted consultation with affected families and stakeholders on the key issues within Funded Family Care. Consultation will cover issues of eligibility, pay rates for carers, the employment relationship, and the type of care covered,” says James Shaw.
“Consultation is needed to ensure any new system is durable and has enough flexibility to meet everyone’s needs. For example, most family carers don’t want to be employed by their disabled child or a disabled family member they live with, but some do,” David Clark says.
“We acknowledge that many families have waited a long time to see this policy changed and I want to thank them for their ongoing patience,” David Clark says.
“This work contributes directly to the Government priority to ensure everyone who is able to, is earning, learning, caring and volunteering,” David Clark says.
Notes for editors:
Funded Family Care allows payment of people to care for resident family members assessed as having high or very high needs relating to disability, long term chronic health conditions, mental health and addiction and aged care needs. Funded Family Care policies are administered by the Ministry of Health (Disability Support Services) and District Health Boards.
Part 4A of the New Zealand Public Health and Disability Act 2000 provides that the Ministry of Health and District Health Boards have family care policies allowing persons to be paid for providing health and/or disability services to family members. It also limits the ability for complaints to be made to the Human Rights Commission and the Courts regarding breaches of the Human Rights Act 1993 relating to family care policies.
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 11:57:23 +1200beehive.govt.nz105690